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Minneapolis Reign My Prince book, "Minneapolis Reign", is out now and is available worldwide. Copies are now in America, Asia, Australasia and everywhere across Europe. It's available online at www.minneapolisreign.com, Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk and other retail sites. Here are some reviews the book has received so far: "I'm very glad that I have one more day of vacation because I'm not going to be able to put this book down until I've finished it! It's now past 4am and I'm halfway through. It's an amazing read, Stuart. I'm engrossed!" Michael Byars, KCUR-FM Kansas City, USA "Stuart really captured all of what Celebration 2017 was. The energy, the entertainment, the emotion. Very descriptive, he makes you feel as though he took you along on this trip to Paisley Park and on the adventure of finding spots that are part of Prince's history in Minneapolis. Prince is smiling down on you, Stuart." Tami Foster, Minneapolis, USA "Travelog, biography, guidebook, gastro; this book is all of these things, but is essentially an unrequited love story, whether the author realizes it or not. His knowledge of his subject is outweighed only by his love for the man and his music. The addition of a map is a lovely touch, as are a set of photographs that really convey the emotion and joy of the whole trip. Five stars." AMAZON UK "Absolutely tremendous. Would recommend to anyone, not just music aficionados or Prince fam. The passion Stuart evidences for both his idol and recounting his trip is apparent. Beautifully written, carefully executed, a literary journey. File next to whatever your favourite music biography is. Minneapolis Reign is definitely better than whatever you're reading right now." AMAZON UK "Stuart's love for Prince leaps off every page and the story of his journey to Minneapolis to commemorate the first anniversary of Prince's passing is an absolute pleasure to read. Stuart clearly has an expert knowlegde of his subject, yet the reader can still feel his sense of wonderment at what he experiences, whether it be his visit to Paisley Park, discovering Prince's childhood haunts, meeting members of his idol's family and band or even simply a car journey through the Minnesota countryside. I've heard so many people say about this book 'when you read it, you feel like you were there', and it's absolutely true. I write this an anything but a Prince 'aficionado'. Beyond two or three singles, I have little knowledge of his life or music, but this book has certainly filled in a few gaps and has encouraged me to investigate further. Great stuff!" Bill Aitken, Thirsk, UK "The attention to providing almost every detail of the journey from the North East of England to Prince's hometown to commemorate his passing is what really defines this book. It really helps to not only capture the life and spirit of Minneapolis and Paisley Park, giving a first person view of the places that helped shaped the Purple One, but also acts as an insight into the mind of a super fan. The knowledge and passion for the subject shines through with a sense of glee and wonder that true fans of any artist of any discipline can recognise. At times filled with nuggets of information about Prince's upbringing and at others a surprisingly personal, emotional pilgrimage. Let's hope Stuart has other passions to present!" A Johnson, UK "Full disclosure: I am a purple friend of Stuart and make a brief appearance in this book. That said, I greatly enjoyed Stuart's heartfelt narrative as a Prince fan "coming home" to Minneapolis. Although I live in Minnesota, in following Stuart's travels, I learned a few fascinating tidbits along the way. For example, Sound 80 recording studio still exists as a business! Who knew? And Jucy Lucy's at Matt's Bar - how is it that I've lived in Minneapolis for 18 months and have yet to indulge in a Jucy Lucy? The stop at the former Moon Sound Studio was incredibly poignant and you can be sure I'll be making my own pilgrimage there soon. What's more, as someone planning to attend my first Celebration at Paisley Park this spring, I have an insider's knowledge about what to expect. Stuart is such a good-natured and enthusiastic guide to my own city and you can bet I will be tracing some of his travels myself." Laura Tiebert - Prince biographer - Minneapolis, USA "I haven't been able to put it down. Made me laugh and made me cry. Incredible detail of what was clearly a very special journey for you. Bravo." Dan Briggs, UK "Once I started reading of Stuart's pilgrimage to Minneapolis on the first anniversary of Prince's death, I couldn't put the book down. It oozes such enthusiasm and unashamed love of the Purple One, and also gives a taste of an amazing town that I visited the week before the anniversary. I only wish that I'd visited Paisley Park when I had the opportunity now! Maybe next time. Well written, well researched with an easy-going day-by-day style. Highly, highly recommended, not just for Prince 'fam' but for anyone who wants to get a feel for Minneapolis and its amazing music scene." A Knight, UK "I love this book by Stuart Willoughby. He paints a perfect picture of what you will find in Minneapolis, Prince's home town. I've never been there, but I felt like I was there taking the tour along with him. I'm going in April 2018 for the first time and I'm taking this book with me. It has a map and list of Must See destinations as part of the book. I can't wait.Thank you Stuart!" AMAZON US "A must for all Prince fans. A stunning piece of work getting you that little closer to the man and where he lived. Keep the legacy alive." GB, UK. "An absolutely captivating read! The knowledge the author has about Prince and his life, from birth until his untimely passing is second to none. Second only to the admiration and love he has for the artist that took the world by (a purple) storm. I felt that I was experiencing each and every part of the authors pilgrimage, such was the depth of detail. I felt the emotions the author was feeling and have to admit to being a little watery eyed in parts. This book is not only perfect for Prince fans, but for anyone that loves music. I would also say that, if anyone is intending to make a similar pilgrimage to the author, this book will make an invaluable guide." SJ, SCOTLAND, UK "The level of detail in this book is incredible, from the first page you feel like you are on the journey with the author. His passion and knowledge for Prince appears to hold no bounds, and every page brings with it swathes of new information that will make even die hard fans gasp for breath. The adventure unfolds at such a rapid rate of knots, that it is hard to comprehend the series of events and right place right time moments that made this the ultimate trip of a lifetime. Whether you're a fan of Prince or not is irrelevant, this book is a great read that will make you laugh and make you cry in equal measure." Philip Clarkson, UK "Luv the book. Great addition to my collection!!!" AMAZON US "I really, truly enjoyed this book. Stuart Willoughby recounts his visit to Celebration 2017, a 4 day event that honored the legend, Prince, a year after his passing. I was also in attendance at this moving event, but let me say that the book will resonate with any Prince supporter, regardless of whether they have made the journey to Prince's iconic home in Minneapolis. If you went, the book is a treasured souvenir, and if you didn't, the book is a rare first hand glimpse into Prince's world. Willoughby has a breezy, flowing writing style that glides you from one moment to the next, and the stories are lovingly recounted in just enough detail to put you squarely in this time and place. The author cares deeply about his subject, but there is no swooning overload...rather, it is an informative and emotional tale, written from a very authentic place in his heart. It is a beautiful love letter that every Prince "fam" needs on their bookshelf. Thank you, Stuart." Joan Alythia, Boston, USA "I bought this on a Friday, I'd read it by the following Wednesday, and it is by no means a small volume! Really, really enjoyed this fan's (or is it FAM'S !?) road-trip memoirs of a once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to the home town of Prince. Absolutely rattles along at breakneck speed with some incredible tales of a journey that was well planned, but the author couldn't possibly have imagined what would happen on the trip. Great writing style, great stories, great memories....and that's from a "casual" fan of the late Man and his music. BUY IT." Phil Dunn, UK "Absolutely loved it! From the minute I opened it after receiving it in the post I really found it difficult to stop reading because I was so intrigued by what was going to happen next. After reading it I honestly felt like I had experienced the whole time with him as every detail is so wonderfully described. His passion and knowledge of Prince is amazing. What an incredible thing to have been able to do...definitely an unrepeatable once in a lifetime experience and thank you so much for sharing your amazing journey Stuart š" AMAZON UK "The book is brilliant. I really enjoyed the tour around the house. I see why it would never be the same if you went back too. Well done. I think Prince himself would be over the cherry moon!" Mark Jennings, UK "This book is a joy to read from start to finish and you don't need to be a Prince fan to enjoy it. Anyone who has an idol and who has embarked on any kind of pilgrimage to their hero's roots will instantly recognise the wealth and range of emotions such a trip might evoke. Of course, the trip described here is on a much grander scale than any that your average fan could ever hope to undertake and as it evolves in the book it becomes more like a grand adventure. The attention to detail is incredible - I have never been to Minneapolis but if I landed there tomorrow I don't think I'd get lost having read the book. Lovers of Prince will lap up the descriptions of Paisley Park and the events that took place in those few days as well as all the music and performance references that permeate the narrative. Those of us who are Prince admirers rather than fans will be well informed and eager to explore the artist more thoroughly. The book is written with great tenderness in a warm and easy style and you find yourself sharing the sense of elation, excitement, joy and wide-eyed schoolboy enthusiasm as well as the underlying sadness of Prince's passing as experienced by Stuart and his companions. Thoroughly enjoyable and informative." Andy Foot, AMAZON UK "Just like the Marauder's Map from Harry Potter, Stuart Willoughbyās book Minneapolis Reign meticulously follows the footsteps of arguably the greatest musician of all time, but better than that, Stuartās book is like a VIP pass to the world of Prince. Minneapolis Reign is the definitive guide for anyone who wants to spend some time dancing in Prince's world. It's the story of a Prince fan going to explore Princeās Minneapolis and itās a guide to whatās where and how to find it, but best of all, Minneapolis Reign is from the perspective of one of us; a fam who loved with a passion the artist known as Prince and who will forever be in our souls, minds, and hearts. The book is closed, for now, until I want to go for a walk with Prince again. Thanks Stuart. Loved it." GF, UK "Damn U ....took the book on the tube and first few pages made me cry. Cant read in public now without looking crazy!" DR, UK "Informative, passionate and genuine. If you are going to Minneapolis you need this book. I thoroughly enjoyed every page. Its also made me re-evaluate my opinion on Prince, the people he influenced, and how he impacted on people's lives including the author's. An utterly brilliantly written book. I can't recommend it highly enough." Tony Smithyman, UK "Fantastic read. You have cracked this Stu. Only two chapters in and don't want to put it down." JB, UK "Itās something of a clichĆ© to say that a book could āmake you feel like you were thereā, but this book really does. Itās a beautifully written account of the trip any āfamā wants to take. The passion, love and appreciation of the Purple genius from this, at times emotional, journey oozes from every page. Hoping to undertake this trip myself next year and I think Stuart has sorted my itinerary out for me. Great book and a wonderful read. Buy it and enjoy." Andrew Povey, UK "A wonderful read for Prince fans. Stuartās admiration is apparent. Great book." AMAZON UK "This book is brilliant. I feel like I've been on the purple pilgrimage to Minneapolis with Stuart the author without even leaving the comfort of my own home. I love Prince, and learnt so many things about his home city from the detail that Stuart goes into. I'm very grateful he's shared his experience in this book so I could go on the journey too. Highly recommended!" Susan Jefferson, UK "Just finished. Bravo!! Loved it! It was a fun journey you took me on. Thank you for sharing this with me and everyone else. You have a gift for writing!" TF, USA "Stuart, I loved your book very much. The book is full of recognition for me as I also attended Celebration 2017. I will cherish my memories forever and for the details of that special week I now have your book. Reading it was sometimes very emotional, but I am sure I will read your book again and again. Thank you for taking me back in time!" Pascal Besselink, HOLLAND "I read the first twenty pages when I got home last night. Astounding detail! I expected that level of detail regarding Prince, but the architecture, history and general descriptiveness - very impressive!" Gary Walters, UK "It's a brilliantly written book, feel like I've been to Paisley! š" SJ, UK "Wow. I love the passion and knowledge that the author has. I know I will never go to Prince's home but I felt like I was there. I got this as a music fan and not a big Prince fan as I only have a few of his albums that I am now going to dig out!" MJ, UK "Already engrossed and I'm only up to Thursday! I can't put it down! You really get a sense of being there with you on this exciting journey. Your passion and enthusiasm of this great adventure jumps out of the book on every word!" Dawn Cooper, UK "Stuart, I really really loved your book. Ordered another one to give away. For all who went to PP or want to go, this book is the best! Highly recommended!" Claudy Lubbers, NETHERLANDS "You really have a talent for writing. Loving it so far X" DK, UK "Stuart Willoughby, you have written a masterpiece. This book is the ultimate guide for any Prince 'fam'. From the first page, you almost feel as though you are part of Stuart's journey, or perhaps, a better word would be pilgrimage. As a young boy, Stuart idolized Prince, his style, his music, his kudos, and his ability to attract the opposite sex! The impact of Prince's untimely death profoundly affected Stuart, and this ultimately led to his decision to make his journey a year after Prince's death. In this beautifully written travel guide to Minneapolis, Prince's home town, Stuart gives you a greater understanding of the man, from his very humble beginnings, to the global superstar he became. Each chapter is incredibly detailed, from the homes Prince lived in to the venues he played, and, of course, his home at the time of his passing; Paisley Park. I believe that Stuart genuinely loved Prince, and this book is, in my opinion, the ultimate tribute to the man, the icon, the superstar." Carolyn Chester, UK "Hey Stuart - hope you're well, just wanted to say that I finished reading Minneapolis Reign this morning & absolutely loved it - thank you so much. You captured every moment of what was clearly a life-changing trip. I so wish I'd managed to make it over for the anniversary, but I kind of feel I was there now. And thanks too for doing & sharing all the leg-work for a future MPLS pilgrimage - I hope to make it over there before long & shall be using your book as THE Guide! I went to the London exhibition at the O2 yesterday (for the second time) & though you just get a flavour of what Paisley Park must be like, having read your book made it all the more vivid and real. I do hope the book is turning out to be a success. You really deserve it. It's well written, fantastically observant, and very moving - yes, several sections brought a tear to my eye. I should think it'll appeal to the regular reader as well as the the hard-core fam. Yours will certainly join the ranks of the Prince books that "get it!" Many congratulations." Phil Clarkson, UK "Only on page seven and I have something in my eye. Congratulations Stuart, I'm looking forward to reading the rest." Chris Bailey, UK "What a ride! Stuart has covered every possible detail in this book so that you feel the enormity of the journey. His emotive passion for Prince is candid and his love and compassion for his fellow āfamā leaps off every page. A well-worthy read and a superbly written book from start to finish. 10/10!" Martyn Levitt, AMAZON UK "A great book from start to finish. You feel like you are there with Stuart and his companions not only as they go to the Prince Celebration but also as they go round Minneapolis and visit places that were all part of the Prince story. Well written by someone who is a fan first and foremost, I cannot recommend this book highly enough. If you are going to this years Celebration you must read this book and help plan your visit to see all what Minneapolis has to offer to a Prince fam beyond Paisley Park. A must read Prince book." AMAZON US "Really does give a feel of being there beside you - and that's even before getting to the emotional aspects to come." GDW, UK "An essential addition to the canon of Prince books, this is a brilliantly written travel bio that reveals everything you ever wanted to know about Minneapolis and the connections it has to it's most famous son. It reads like a fantastic adventure and Stuart Willoughby pays fitting tribute to the great man. Prince fam: you need this book in your life. Of all the books written about him this year this one is the only one that will make you laugh AND cry. The description of Prince's home at Paisley Park makes you feel like you're right there. The best thing I've read this year. Highly recommended and grateful to have a signed edition!" AMAZON US "Started reading it last night. I feel like I'm on the trip to Mpls too. Really enjoying it so far." DL, AUSTRALIA "This book is gorgeous from the front cover to every word written inside. Stuart's love for Prince is true in every word he writes. The pictures he has chosen to take you with him on his journey are perfect, and the map at the front is lovely. It takes you there (for those of us who might not be able to make it!) and u can follow it as he makes his journey through Prince's hometown and hangouts. Absolutely loved this from start to finish. I was meant to save it for beach reading on holiday, but I just couldn't resist any longer, it's purple cover pulling me in. I'm glad I didn't wait and I'll still take it on holiday with me to read again! Thank you Stuart for a wonderful book, memories, and pictures xxx" Gem, Amazon UK "Just finished reading the book. It's an absolutely phenomenal document of your trip." BT, UK "Enjoying the book! It's literally minute by minute! You could only write a book like this about a handful of artists as he's so intrinsically connected throughout his life to that city." Andrew Johnson, UK "It's a testament to any book that I read it more than once. I've read this three times since release simply because of how brilliant a journey it is to envelop yourself in. Minneapolis Reign has a transcendent value. It works as a travelogue, it works as a living literary map, it works as a ripping yarn of a lifelong fanatic fulfilling his dreams, and it works as a tool to learn about Prince and Minneapolis. Heartily recommended. The best music book of 2017 by my standards." AMAZON US "An absolutely fascinating read" SM, UK "Iāve never really been a fan of his music, but I I recognise immense talent and Prince was out on his own in front. I've just finished reading your book, Stu. I loved it and could feel your love for him throughout this trip. Well done! Iām off now. Prince is taking me shopping!" Richard Vernon, UK "A beautifully written candid account of a life long Prince "fam" making a pilgrimage on the first anniversary of Princes' untimely death. I felt as if I was on the trip with the author, and the descriptions made me visualise the world he is in. A superb read, and a must for everyone who loves popular music and of course any Prince "fam". Thank U Stuart Willoughby for taking me on this special journey with you." MA, UK "I LOVE IT! My only mistake was not buying more than one copy!" SM, USA "Had me reeling emotionally and longing to go back, but you recounted the trip with such exactitude I know I'll never need to." Jonathan Tait, UK "Damn, Iāve read the free pages and now want to read the rest!" Mike Sargent, UK "I felt like I was back in Minneapolis. You've done a tremendous job and should be proud of not just the book's success, but its very existence." Ben Thompson, UK "It is by its very nature, excellent." JPT, UK "Congratulations, I know how much work must have gone into this, and from what I have read so far it has certainly paid off." Hamish Witta, NEW ZEALAND "Hey Stuart, just wanted to say a huge congratulations and thank you. Your book is brilliant. I was so excited when I came home to it yesterday. I couldn't wait to read it. It's so cool!" AD, UK "I loved your book. Thank you!" Jason Noonan, USA "A book not just for Prince fans but for anyone who loves music. Stuart's passion for his subject leaps from every page. The attention to detail is astounding. At times I felt I was right there alongside the guys in the car travelling the highways and byways of Minneapolis. I learned a lot about an artist about whom I knew very little and that is great credit to the way the story is told." AMAZON UK "I am really enjoying this book. I have been to Minneapolis a few times now and its like being there all over again. Thank you!" Michele Coker, USA "I have just finished reading it and what an incredible journey it was. So nice to read and know more in-depth the stories about the people you met and how things just fell into place and happened. I understand more now why when you said it was a one time thing for you because you really can't ever replicate those experiences and meetings again." Erica Daniels, UK 'A book not just for Prince fans but for anyone who loves music. Stuart's passion for his subject leaps from every page. The attention to detail is astounding. At times I felt I was right there alongside the guys in the car travelling the highways and byways of Minneapolis. I learned a lot about an artist about whom I knew very little and that is great credit to the way the story is told.' CB, UK 'It's exceptionally well written. In fact, it's just like having a conversation with you, but written down!" CC, UK "Just received your book last night. Read about 60 pages and had to put it down to sleep! Iām so glad Iļø can experience this through your book. Iāve cried already. Iļø am already so in love with this book. Iļø really canāt thank you enough." JJ, USA "I'm happy that the journey has made you feel closer to him. It must be an amazing feeling for you. Thank you again for sharing your journey " ED, UK "An utterly tremendous read. It's evident how diligently researched, passionately written and sensitively considered this book is. Well done Stuart." AT, UK "When I got to the photo of you outside First Ave the tears started to flow as I realised that right behind you was the flower that Mark and I had left for Prince. I have just finished the book and I just wanted to say thank you Stuart for telling us your story. The part when you toured PP took me a long time to read through the tears. I loved it." Jill Fullick, UK "Thank you so much for your book. I am about half way through now and I am loving it so much. Makes me feel like I am right back there." WD, USA "Amazing book, Stuart. I have maybe twenty pages left to read. It's beautifully written!" Kim Laybourne, AUSTRALIA "Does justice to the little big manās memory and talent." AM, UK "Your book is so descriptive, I feel like I was there with you! I'm up to the part where you found out who the special guest was. I SO wish I could have gone." SNM, USA "I love your attention to detail! I can actually see it in my mind..and I've never even been there. I'm going for Celebration 2018! I can't wait!" Sharon McAllister, USA "Thank you for the book which I got yesterday. I never expected to cry!" JF, UK "I loved the book Stuart. I couldnāt put it down! Well done!" Joanne Donnelly, UK "I've just finished reading the book. Its absolutely wonderful. It puts into words so many of the feelings and thoughts I had, and have. I feel the same that I'll always be happy for the good times we've had with Prince and proud, like you, of the stuff he achieved. The level of detail and Prince knowledge is legendary. It was so good to re-live (with tears and smiles) one of the greatest few days of my life. The stars were lined up that we were all there together. Thank you so much." Mark Flanagan, Birmingham UK "I felt like I was there with you. In all seriousness it's a wonderful book." KL, UK "When someone who means a great deal to you dies, be it a loved one or a celebrity whose work is deeply meaningful to you, the grief that follows can be overwhelming. Finding a way to address and deal with that sense of loss can be a challenge, and in "Minneapolis Reign" its author, Stuart Willoughby, tells the tale of one such effort, as the life and work of Prince Rogers Nelson was of supreme importance to him from the moment he first heard the music as a young lad. As he tries to deal with the sudden loss of Prince in April of 2016, he and two friends travel from England to Minnesota to attend a celebration of Prince's life which took place one year after his passing. In this book, Mr. Willoughby shares his journey with the reader, and does so in a very personal and candid manner. From its opening pages, "Minneapolis Reign" is clearly the work of a man dealing with the dual emotions of sorrow and excitement, as well as of a man who has a deep and impressive knowledge of its subject, as it details his first journey to Paisley Park, the site of Celebration 2017 and Prince's live-in home and office. This book is especially suited for the reader who enjoys taking their time, as the amount of detail and research Mr. Willoughby has included is formidable. He isn't satisfied to simply narrate his story - he intends to bring you along and, in your mind's eye, have you at his side as he and his mates arrive in Minneapolis, drive around the area finding locations of great and specific meaning in Prince's life, enjoy their first Jucy Lucy, and experience sights and sounds that left them struggling for the words to describe the elation and joy they felt as they shared these moments not only with each other but with hundreds upon hundreds of other deeply devoted admirers of Prince. Those members of The Fam would truly enjoy this book and understand all the references Mr. Willoughby made, and the greatness of his storytelling here is that he brings even the casual Prince fan close enough that they too feel that connection with the artist formerly referred to as The Artist. Rich in detail and sincerity, with photos to enjoy and a map of their Minneapolis travels to follow, "Minneapolis Reign" is an excellent read; only if you had personally said to Mr. Willoughby "take me with U" would you have gained a greater sense of his experiences. Enjoy." MB, USA "Do yourself a favour - if youāre into music - even just a little bit - buy this book." Alison McKenzie, London UK | |
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Thanks, I prefer hardcover, and I might buy this. [Edited 1/3/18 4:39am] Prince 4Ever. | |
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Hi. It's paperback only. | |
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Hi - a friend and I are hoping to travel over to PP (from the UK) in Spring 2019...I will read your book beforehand and see how our experiences compare! | |
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Why don't you post on the market place forum?Why are you making dupe threads to advertise your product like a infomercial.I thought this thread was about something else,not a commercial for your own profit.
AKA PDEXTER | |
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^ oh shut up, you.... dumba*s..... Prince 4Ever. | |
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Thanks for sharing info regarding the book. | |
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Why would you resort to calling me a dumbass?Ive never said anything foul or disrespectful to anyone on this site.There's a difference between letting someone know about a new book and posting multiple threads with a ridiculous amount of reviews...now come on.I did not "hate" on the book and I'm not saying it's not a good book...It would've probably been a good read when I went to minneapolis this summer.You ended your post with peace and curse me out and you act like I was the one being rude?There is nothing in my original post that has any kind of malice or hate in it AKA PDEXTER | |
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